Kayaking On Lake Kivu From Gisenyi, Kibuye & Rusizi
Kayaking On Lake Kivu is a memorable quest, perfectly designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Consider embarking on a kayaking expedition on Lake Kivu in the Republic of Rwanda during your holiday. Rwanda is a small, landlocked nation characterized by numerous hills, diverse flora and fauna, and abundant greenery.
The capital city of the country is Kigali, recognized as one of the most advanced in Africa, characterized by excellent security and welcoming inhabitants. This region is renowned for the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, the fauna in Akagera National Park, and the chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park.Rwanda is bordered by the Republic of Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Lake Kivu is the largest lake in Rwanda, located in the western region. Seize the opportunity to navigate single or double-seater kayaks at your leisure in the tranquil waters while discovering the concealed treasure of the Lake. The activity commences with a briefing on the anticipated experience at Gisenyi or Kibuye resort, where participants will pedal around the lakeshores, traversing the scattered islands and woodlands, while observing fisherman and others preparing their nets for sunset fishing. Redbreast tilapia, Lake Tanganyika sardines, fin tilapia, and more species inhabit the lake.
The Kayaks deployed are contemporary and secure for water navigation. Their firm facilitates a more adventurous experience by providing easy access to the board for swimming. The kayak is equipped with waterproof bags for safeguarding gadgets, comfy seating, and compartments for a camera, keys, and other essentials to enhance the journey.
The remaining team members will be equipped with safety gear, a first aid pack, and a map of Lake Kivu. Lake Kivu spans through a surface of over 270,000 hectares, with a hilly backdrop and eye-catching surrounding sceneries.
Discover the breathtaking white sand beaches and rural settlements.
Kayaking can be conducted in three stages for approximately two hours. The first section consists of a sunrise kayaking expedition, a sunset experience, and a half-day kayaking session. At sunset, one can observe the sights and encounter fisherman preparing for nocturnal fishing. There is no cause for concern regarding the experience, as it is accessible to everyone.
Best Time/season for Kayaking On Lake Kivu
You can go kayaking in the lake any day of the week, and you can do it all year long with the help of professional guides. The perfect months are December to February and June to September, characterized by moderate or no rainfall that may disrupt the activity session. Kayaking necessitates low water levels, attainable during the arid months of the year. Other months are suitable as well, provided there are no sudden rains that could disrupt the safari.
Kayaking On Lake Kivu from Gisenyi, Rubavu
Discover the picturesque shoreline of Lake Kivu on short excursion, seeking serenity on the pristine, temperate waters, and encounter the fishermen at dusk as they embark on nocturnal fishing expeditions. Embark on a day excursion with a break for lunch on a small island, or undertake an overnight adventure at secluded campsites on unoccupied islands, guesthouses, or lodges to explore real coffee experiences, markets, and breathtaking landscapes.
Gisenyi, located in Rubavu District, is a favored tourist town characterized by its lively waterfront and laid-back ambiance, situated to the north of Lake Kivu.
Travel duration: 4 hours from Kigali.
Meeting Points
Paradis Malahide is an excellent mid-range hotel located on the periphery of Gisenyi, adjacent to the lake, including one of the most genuine African restaurants in Rwanda. Visitors on one of our trips are welcome to buy food or stay here.
Kayaking on Lake Kivu Excursions from Kibuye, Karongi
Embark on an exploratory expedition to Rwanda’s Bay of Islands to uncover diminutive yet safeguarded natural forests, climb to the peak of Munini (referred to as Napoleon’s Island) to observe a boisterous colony of fruit bats and breathtaking vistas of the lake, proceed to our secluded camping location for an overnight experience, or extend your journey to Gisenyi over three or four days, visiting local markets, engaging in coffee experiences, and interacting with Kivu’s fishing community.
The majority of tourist hotels are situated on peninsulas in the lake, rendering Kibuye in Karongi District a picturesque location midway along Lake Kivu.
Travel duration: 3 hours from Kigali.
Meeting Points
Delta Resort is a serene retreat situated in a picturesque locale on the banks of Lake Kivu, serving as the best starting point for kayaking excursions in Kibuye. Kindly purchase a dinner or remain here if you are participating in one of our excursions.
Kayaking Excursions from Rusizi
Paddle onto Lake Kivu to appreciate the serenity of the crystalline waters and see the intriguing landscapes near Rusizi, while watching for bird colonies in the trees. Accelerate swiftly or relish a leisurely pace while appreciating the tranquility of the open lake and observing the numerous birds that flit in and out of the foliage along the beach.
The majority of tourist hotels are situated on peninsulas within the lake, rendering Rusizi District a picturesque location midway around Lake Kivu.
Additional Activities in Lake Kivu
Boat excursions on Lake Kivu to explore its aquatic inhabitants and scenic vistas, a coffee tour within the local community to discover the safari energizer, swimming in the crocodile-free lake, hiking and cycling through the hilly and mountainous regions, visiting the orphanage for victims of the 1994 Genocide, and sport fishing to capture various fish species in the lake, notably tilapia, Tanganyika sardine, and redbreast tilapia. Include the Congo Nile trek experience, which involves traversing the trail along the Congo-Rwanda border, in your list. Observe the breathtaking scenery and verdant plantations.
What to Bring for Kayaking On Lake Kivu
If you have already reserved your kayaking expedition at Lake Kivu, be sure to take the necessary supplies that will contribute to the success of your safari. Bring the subsequent items
- A backpack
- Clothes that won’t keep you so wet
- Sunscreen
- A waterproof jacket
- A photographic camera
- A safari hat
- Enough drinking water, etc.
Other things to pack will depend on how long you want to kayak and what else you plan to accomplish. Refrain from carrying anything that prove cumbersome and exhausting throughout the journey.
In conclusion, kayaking on Lake Kivu represents the definitive safari experience available year-round, with best season/months running from June to August and December to February. Booking ahead of time is required for a better preparation and an unforgettable safari experience on one of Africa’s biggest lakes.